India Develops Indigenous “Ugram’ Rifle in Only 100 Days

New Delhi: The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed an indigenous rifle, ‘Ugram’ (meaning ferocious) in less than 100 days through its Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and Hyderabad-based private firm Dvipa Armour India Private Limited.

This 7.62 mm calibre rifle is more lethal than rifles that use 5.62 mm calibre rounds like the INSAS rifle used by Indian paramilitary forces. According to the Indian Express, the ‘Ugram’ rifle has been developed keeping the operational requirements of military, paramilitary and police forces in mind. The rifle will have an effective range of 500 metres and weighs four kg.

This rifle will now undergo trials to test its operational capability in conditions like harsh winter, extreme heat and underwater, reported the Times of India.

India has partnered with Russia to develop the AK-203 rifle that use 7.62 mm calibre rounds. Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is a joint venture company established for indigenous production of AK-203 Rifles at Korwa in Uttar Pradesh. The AK-203 has an effective range of 300 metres.